I assume that a nurse contributes to the conduct of research by making sure consent is given. In the pre-surgery units, a nurse is in charge of making sure that consent has been given. It is not our job to obtain it. I also think that a nurse has to make sure that the study is not violating any state or medical laws and guidelines. This can include the population that the study can use as well as the use of new medications or procedures. We must have a moral compass to navigate these muddy waters when conducting research. This is not only a skill that is used in research but especially in clinical practice.
